Flamecutting is a relatively fast method for cutting steel using an acetylene gas arc to preheat the metal to a red color and then applying a jet of pure oxygen. The result is an instantaneous cutting operation that typically leaves a rough iron oxide slag appearance. In most cases the cut surface must then be machined to produce a better part shape and surface finish. This process can be done by hand as shown above or by automated machines that are capable of producing contour shapes, holes, as well as straight cuts.
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